LA Testing provides analytical services to identify hazardous materials and protect people following this weekend’s earthquake in Northern California.

Garden Grove, CA, August 26th, 2014

Last weekend, the strongest earthquake to hit Northern California in 25 years was reported just southwest of Napa, California. The earthquake injured dozens and registered 6.0 on the Richter scale. It caused widespread damage to properties as it knocked out power to thousands in the area. Numerous fires also resulted due to broken gas lines and downed utilities.

As area residents inspect the damage, they are being cautioned to be wary of aftershocks and potential indoor environmental hazards that may be present in damaged homes, business and schools.

Some of these older properties contain materials made out of asbestos. Asbestos was used in the past in many interior and exterior materials found in homes and buildings in the impacted area. When an earthquake strikes, these materials can become damaged and release asbestos fibers into the air and dust that settles. It can also be a hazard during cleanup and rebuilding efforts. Common asbestos containing materials include:

Attic and wall insulation containing vermiculite

Vinyl floor tiles and the backing on vinyl sheet flooring and adhesives

Hot water and steam pipes coated with asbestos material or covered with an asbestos blanket or tape

“In addition to asbestos concerns, older properties with lead-based paints could expose building occupants and workers conducting repairs with an increased risk of lead exposure,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager at LA Testing’s Garden Grove facility. “Properties with broken water or sewer lines also present a concern as any water damage could contain bacteria, mold and other microbial contaminants.”

LA Testing provides comprehensive analytical services, test kits and sampling supplies to identify indoor environmental hazards that may be present in earthquake damaged properties. To learn more about this or other environmental, health and safety issues, please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Garden Grove, San Leandro and San Diego.